An AC EV charger (alternating current electric vehicle charger) is a device used to charge electric vehicles (EVs) using alternating current (AC) electricity. Unlike DC chargers (direct current), which convert AC power into DC power to charge an EV's battery, an AC EV charger relies on the vehicle's onboard charger to convert the AC power into the required DC power.
AC chargers are typically used for home charging or at public EV charging stations where faster charging speeds are not necessarily a top priority. These chargers are generally slower than DC chargers but can be more convenient and cost-effective for day-to-day charging needs.
There are different types of AC charging points, including home EV chargers and public chargers, each offering varying power levels to suit different needs.
Yes, AC charging is generally considered a good option for electric vehicles. In fact, it is the most common method for charging EVs, especially for everyday usage. Here's why:
Convenience: Many EV owners use AC charging at home, where the car can be plugged in overnight, ensuring it is fully charged by morning. This is particularly convenient for people who have access to a home EV charger.
Cost-Effectiveness: AC chargers tend to be less expensive than their DC counterparts, both in terms of purchase price and installation costs. This makes them more accessible to the average consumer.
Compatibility: Most EVs are designed to be charged via an AC EV charger. Even if your car supports both AC and DC charging, you'll find that AC charging is more widely available, especially in residential areas.
Low Maintenance: Since AC EV chargers do not require complex electrical components like DC chargers, they tend to have fewer maintenance needs.
Sufficient Charging Speed for Daily Use: While slower than DC charging, AC charging provides ample charging speed for daily commutes. Most people do not need to fully charge their vehicle in one go, making AC charging perfectly sufficient for everyday use.
Understanding the difference between AC and DC EV chargers is essential to grasp how each works and the benefits they provide. Here's a comparison of the two:
| Feature | AC EV Charger | DC EV Charger |
|---|---|---|
| Power Source | Alternating Current (AC) | Direct Current (DC) |
| Charging Speed | Slower charging speeds | Faster charging speeds |
| Onboard Charger | Requires onboard charger to convert AC to DC | Directly supplies DC to the vehicle’s battery |
| Common Use | Home charging, public EV charging stations | Public charging stations, commercial fast chargers |
| Cost | Lower installation and equipment cost | Higher installation and equipment cost |
| Installation | Easier installation at home | Requires special infrastructure and more complex installations |
The key difference between AC and DC EV chargers lies in how the electricity is delivered to the vehicle. AC chargers deliver alternating current to the vehicle, which is then converted into direct current (DC) by the vehicle's onboard charger. In contrast, DC chargers provide direct current to the battery, which is much faster but requires more advanced infrastructure and equipment.
The short answer is DC charging is faster than AC charging. This is because DC chargers deliver the power directly to the vehicle's battery in DC format, whereas AC chargers deliver power in AC format, which must then be converted by the vehicle's onboard charger to DC before it can be stored in the battery. This added conversion process makes AC charging slower.
To put it in perspective, the power provided by AC EV chargers is typically measured in kilowatts (kW), with most home chargers offering around 7kW to 22kW charging capacity. These are suitable for overnight charging or charging during the day when the vehicle is parked. On the other hand, DC fast chargers can provide much higher charging speeds, with some capable of delivering 50 kW or even 150 kW of power, enabling rapid charging in a matter of 30 minutes to an hour.
Widespread Availability: AC charging points are more widely available than DC charging stations, especially in residential areas. This makes it easier for people to access convenient EV charging stations.
Low Cost: Compared to DC chargers, AC chargers are cheaper to install and maintain. This makes them a popular choice for both private and public charging infrastructure.
No Need for Specialized Equipment: Since AC charging utilizes the onboard charger in the vehicle, there is no need for additional specialized equipment, unlike DC charging, which requires more advanced technology.
Convenience: For home EV charger installations, AC charging is a simple, cost-effective solution. Drivers can plug their car in overnight and start the day with a full battery.
In summary, an AC EV charger is an efficient and convenient way to charge your electric vehicle, especially in residential settings. While it is slower than DC charging, it remains the most common method for electric vehicle charging, providing a cost-effective and reliable solution for everyday charging needs. Whether you’re using a 7kW AC EV charger at home or a 22kW AC charger at a public EV charging station, AC charging is an excellent option for most EV owners. However, for those who need faster charging, DC chargers are the way to go. Ultimately, both AC and DC chargers play essential roles in building a robust EV charging infrastructure, meeting the needs of consumers with varying charging requirements.
